Trump Withdraws Need for Congressional Approval on Iran War

Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that due to a ceasefire, he no longer requires approval from Congress regarding military action against Iran.

US President Donald Trump has taken a new stand on the issue of ongoing tensions with Iran and has told Congress that since the ceasefire has been reached, he no longer needs congressional approval for further military action.P

In his letter, President Trump claimed that since April 7 there had been no direct hostilities between the US and Iran, he had concluded that "hostilities have ceased". 

AP News +1

The statement comes at a time when US law, specifically the War Powers Resolution of 1973, requires the president to obtain authorization from Congress within 60 days if military operations are to continue.  P The Washington Post

However, the Trump administration maintains that the deadline no longer applies because of the cease-fire, while critics say the U.S. military presence and other actions in the region are still ongoing, so congressional approval is necessary.  P

The Washington Post +1

There has been a fierce debate on this decision in political circles.  Some members of Congress have called it unconstitutional, while others say the president would have to seek authorization under the law if tensions escalate again.